Late July brought heavy rains to parched areas of Southern California. One apartment complex in Huntington Beach was particularly hit hard. According to a news report from ABC 7, the apartment complex in the seaside community was having solar panels installed on the roof when the heavy rains arrived. Although the roof had tarps installed, water still caused damage on multiple floors.

In all, more than 30 units sustained damage. Families from the damaged units were moved out due to collapsed ceilings and water that soaked building materials and personal belongings.

“Some residents have voiced concerns over the potential presence of asbestos from the ceiling materials,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager at LA Testing’s Garden Grove facility. “Another major concern is the development of mold due to the moisture and elevated humidity levels. This mold can grow in as short as 48 hours, including in areas that are out of sight. Mold growing in wall cavities and behind cabinets can still become aerosolized and create health and safety concerns for building occupants. In older properties, cleanup activities can also create additional exposure concerns due to dusts from lead-based paints.”

To identify these potential hazards, LA Testing offers all of the sampling supplies and testing services needed to help determine if mold, asbestos, lead and other potential exposure risks exist. They have also sponsored an educational video about hazards following a flood or water damage that can be seen at: http://youtu.be/64u9RNPKbtI.

LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for indoor air quality testing of asbestos, mold, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates and other substances. In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, CDC ELITE, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health and other states. LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Garden Grove, San Leandro and San Diego.